Quote:
Originally Posted by TrevorW
Impressive  but recently there has been a couple of images posted with 50+hrs of data collected but the images IMO don't seem that more impressive than others I've seen posted with a lot less data in total.
At what point in imaging does the law of diminishing returns apply  |
Having posted a 50+ hour image, it's all about gathering enough signal to smooth out the background. Especially so with a small 105mm f/5 refractor. The story would be different with a 12" f/3.5 or 8" f/3. Aperture wins!
As my exposure set increased, I could definately see fainter detail as the signal smoothed during the combines. However, what I began to see at 25 hours in the H-a image was sky background beginning to wash out fainter details.
The filter bandpass is also a factor. 5nm vs. 3nm will show different details. I think with 3nm, I would rarely reach sky background with an f/5 telescope.
I also have to say that my processing of color images is really quite novice in experience. More work to do. In 50+ hours of total HII and OIII exposure, I have a massive data to work with. Makes it easier to process, sharpen and smooth without the obvious side effectes of such processing.
jg
I can clearly see why its called the Eagle Nebula, the beak, wings and tail are very discernable! The colours are stunning! 
